Corona virus update – April 17, 2020

17 Apr 2020

Lockdown

Amongst others, Thailand, Ghana, Pakistan and the Philippines have been added to the list of countries on lockdown. Countries that have already been on lockdown for some time include, but are not limited to Canada, Morocco, South Africa, large parts of the United States, Mexico, Nigeria, and Curacao. We are looking into the effects on the logistics sector, and recommend you liaise with your buyer prior to shipping, to see if they can accept any cargo.

The Lockdown and a shortage of port laborers and truck drivers are creating serious congestion, in particular in the port of Manila (Philippines) and the main Indian ports, like Nhava Sheva, Mundra, and Chennai. The lockdown in India has been extended until May 3rd, although there are rumors that various sectors may resume at limited capacity as early as April 20th.

The quarantine measures put in place in Belgium and Germany have been extended until May 3rd, and in France until May 11th.

Ocean freight import from the Far East

The demand for goods from the Far East has gone down drastically and as a consequence, carriers have announced cancellations of dozens of sailings, all the way through to June. Unfortunately, this is having an immediate effect, with tangible delays on regular schedules and cargo which is being rolled, as the promised vessel capacity is simply not available.

Ocean freight Exports

The blank sailings announced for import (Eastbound) will also affect the number of sailings for export (Westbound). Space and equipment are still quite scarce, especially to the Middle and the Far East. Reefers, in particular, are hard to find. In addition to canceled sailings, changes are also regularly being made to sailing schedules. We recommend that you place your bookings on time.

At the moment it is possible to fly to and from most destinations, although space is limited and the rates have risen considerably. Airfreight to Johannesburg is also possible again.

Rail transport

Rail transport from China can be an alternative. It is significantly faster than seafreight and if the urgency is high, it can be a good replacement for expensive airfreight. Ask our sales department about the possibilities!

Original documentation per courier

Prior to sending original documents abroad, we advise you to check first whether the relevant courier service can actually deliver. We have been informed that in some countries the delivery of documents is currently not possible. This can delay your shipment.

Our advice is to convert your original Bill of Lading to a telex release or waybill where possible. This certainly works faster in the current situation and even saves costs.

Temporary use of digital health certificates possible

As of April 1st, the European Commission temporarily introduced new rules to facilitate a simplified method of veterinary and phytosanitary inspections and the movement of agricultural goods.

It allows for Health Certificates to be exchanged digitally.

The person responsible for submitting the official certificate must provide the competent authority with a statement confirming that the original, official certificate will be presented as soon as technically possible. This new rule will apply until at least May 31st .

Source: ACN / European Commission

Effect on rates

The current market conditions are creating sudden and unforeseen rate changes.
Our rate and service proposals are made, based on capacity conditions at the time of the inquiry.
All offers must be re-confirmed with us at the time of booking to be valid.
Thank you for your understanding.

Although most of our employees are working from home, our business is up and running.
Please let us know if there’s anything we can do to help you!